Government Shutdown Cuts Telehealth Access for Millions of Medicare Beneficiaries Nationwide

The federal government shutdown at the end of September 2025 has caused the abrupt expiration of key COVID-era Medicare programs, notably telehealth benefits and in-home hospital care, affecting millions of seniors nationwide. Medicare telehealth waivers that expanded virtual visits during the pandemic were not extended, forcing many patients, including those in rural and underserved areas, to switch to in-person visits, complicating access especially for those with mobility or travel challenges. While Medicare and Medicaid payments continue during the shutdown, payments for telehealth services provided since the expiration are being held, and some physicians advise rescheduling or converting telehealth visits to in-person care until Congress restores these flexibilities. Hospitals and health organizations, such as the Nebraska Hospital Association, warn that the lack of telehealth coverage undermines critical healthcare access for seniors and rural communities, with additional funding for rural health programs also at risk. Patients like Rhian Campbell from Hawaii, who rely on telehealth for managing rare diseases due to specialist shortages, face significant health and financial burdens as their virtual appointments are canceled without warning. The telehealth disruption highlights the urgent need for congressional action to restore these benefits and funding to prevent further harm to vulnerable populations.